Method, system, and apparatus for dermalogical treatment

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of dermalogical cell treatment are described generally herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of priority to Republic ofKorea Application Number 10-2008-0076993, entitled “Electrical system,skin, skin care and cosmetic electricity,” filed on Aug. 6, 2008, PCTApplication Number PCT/US2008/074131, entitled “METHOD, SYSTEM, ANDAPPARATUS FOR DERMALOGICAL TREATMENT”, Attorney Docket No. NA001PCTfiled on Aug. 22, 2008, and U.S. application Ser. No. 13/060,274,entitled “METHOD, SYSTEM, AND APPARATUS FOR DERMALOGICAL TREATMENT”,Attorney Docket No. NA001US filed on Feb. 22, 2011, the entirety of eachis incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Various embodiments described herein relate generally to treatingdermalogical tissue, including systems, and methods used in treatingdermalogical tissue.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

It may be desirable to treat dermalogical tissue; the present inventionprovides such treatment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a simplified isometric diagram of a dermalogical treatmentapparatus according to various embodiments.

FIG. 1B is a simplified, side diagram of the dermalogical treatmentapparatus according to various embodiments.

FIG. 1C is a simplified, exploded layer view of the dermalogicaltreatment apparatus according to various embodiments.

FIG. 1D is a simplified view of a layer of a dermalogical treatmentapparatus according to various embodiments.

FIG. 2A is a simplified isometric diagram of a dermalogical treatmentarchitecture according to various embodiments.

FIG. 2B is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a dermalogicaltreatment apparatus according to various embodiments.

FIG. 2C is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of another dermalogicaltreatment apparatus according to various embodiments.

FIG. 2D is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of another dermalogicaltreatment apparatus according to various embodiments.

FIG. 2E is a simplified view of a layer of a dermalogical treatmentapparatus according to various embodiments.

FIG. 2F is a simplified, exploded view of layers of the dermalogicaltreatment apparatus according to various embodiments.

FIG. 3A is a simplified isometric diagram of a dermalogical treatmentapparatus according to various embodiments.

FIG. 3B is a simplified isometric diagram of another dermalogicaltreatment apparatus according to various embodiments.

FIG. 4A is a simplified view of a layer of a dermalogical treatmentapparatus according to various embodiments.

FIG. 4B is a simplified view of a layer and apparatus of a dermalogicaltreatment system according to various embodiments.

FIG. 4C is a simplified view of a layer and apparatus of a dermalogicaltreatment system according to various embodiments.

FIGS. 5A-6 are diagrams of signals that may be applied to one or moredermalogical treatment systems according to various embodiments.

FIG. 7A-7C are flow diagrams illustrating dermalogical treatment systemprocessing algorithms according to various embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an article according to variousembodiments.

FIG. 9A is a simplified block diagram of a dermalogical treatmentarchitecture according to various embodiments.

FIG. 9B is a block diagram of an article according to variousembodiments that may be employed in architecture of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 9C is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a cartridge baseddermalogical treatment apparatus with the needles retracted according tovarious embodiments.

FIG. 9D is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a cartridge baseddermalogical treatment apparatus with the needles deployed according tovarious embodiments.

FIG. 10A-10D are simplified, partial, cross-sectional diagrams of acartridge in various stages of attachment to a dermalogical treatmentapparatus according to various embodiments.

FIG. 10E is a simplified, partial, cross-sectional diagram of adermalogical treatment apparatus with needles deployed according tovarious embodiments.

FIG. 10F is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a cartridge baseddermalogical treatment apparatus cartridge interface according tovarious embodiments.

FIG. 11A is a simplified, partial, cross-sectional diagram of adermalogical treatment apparatus cartridge coupled to a handle withneedles deployed according to various embodiments.

FIG. 11B is a simplified, cross-sectional diagram of a cartridge needleassembly according to various embodiments.

FIG. 11C is a simplified, cross-sectional, exploded diagram of acartridge needle assembly according to various embodiments.

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating a dermalogical treatment systemprocessing algorithms according to various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1A is a simplified isometric diagram and FIG. 1B is a simplifiedside view of a dermalogical treatment apparatus 10 according to variousembodiments. The apparatus 10 may include a user handle 220 coupled toan acupuncture plate 200. In an embodiment the plate 200 may beelastically coupled to the handle segment 222 via an elastomeric section210. The elastomeric section may be comprised of a combination ofelastomeric materials and non-elastomeric materials. The elastomericmaterials may include plastics, rubber (synthetic or natural), andspring(s).

FIG. 1C includes a simplified exploded view of an embodiment of anacupuncture plate 200 according to various embodiments. The plate 200may include an upper, substantially rigid section or layer 290,deformable or elastic section 270 or layer, and acupuncture section orlayer 250. The acupuncture section 250 may include a plurality ofacupuncture pins or needles 230. FIG. 1D is a simplified bottom view ofthe plate 200 showing the location or holes 212 for the pins or needles230. In an embodiment the plate 200 may have a rectangular cross sectionhaving a dimensional about 1 to 4 cm in width and about 1 to 6 cm inlength. The plate 200 may any shape including circular, elliptical,polygon, or other shape where the shape may be particular to adermalogical area to be treated.

In an embodiment the plate may include about 140 pins or needles 230uniformly separated. Each needle may be about 0.1 to 0.4 mm in diameterand 0.2 mm to 1.4 mm in length including 0.3 mm diameter and 0.8 mm inlength in an embodiment. The elastic section or layer 270 may becomprised of a combination of elastomeric materials and non-elastomericmaterials. The elastomeric materials may include plastics, rubber(synthetic or natural), and spring(s). The pin section 230 may becoupled directly or indirectly to the upper section 290 via the elasticsection 250, including via glues, screws, welds, or other connection. Inan embodiment the pin section 250 may include elastomers to enable atleast partial deformation of the pin section 250 about the pins 230.

In operation a user may employ the apparatus 10 to create a plurality ofmicro-wounds or holes in dermalogical layers of a mammal's 20 skin ordermis. The micro-wound or hole creation may improve the absorption orapplication of one or more chemicals applied on or about themicro-wounds or holes.

FIG. 2A is a simplified diagram of a dermalogical treatment architecture310 according to various embodiments. Architecture 310 includes anacupuncture apparatus 320 and an electrical signal generation system300. The electrical signal generation system 300 may be electricallycoupled to the acupuncture apparatus 320 via one or more wires 300A andto a mammal 20 to be treated via one or more wires 300B. FIG. 2B is asimplified cross-sectional diagram of the acupuncture apparatus 320according to various embodiments. The apparatus 320 may include a handle330, elastic section 333, electrical interface 340, internal wire(s) 331and plate 350. The pins 351 may have a length A (0.3 mm to 2.1 mm in anembodiment) where at least one pin 351 is electrically coupled to theelectrical interface 340 via the internal wire 331. The electricalinterface 340 may be removably connected to the system 300 wire 300A.

The electrical signal generation system 300 may generate a variety ofsignals (such as shown in FIGS. 5A to 6) to vibrate one or more pins 351electrically coupled to the system 300 via the internal wire 331 andlead 300A. A pin vibration 351 may increase the micro-wound or cutformed in dermis by the pin 351. FIG. 2C is a simplified cross-sectionaldiagram of an acupuncture apparatus 360 according to variousembodiments. The apparatus 360 may include a handle 330, an elasticsection 333, an electrical conductive interface 390, internal wire(s)331, signal generator 370, switch 375, and plate 350. The signalgenerator 370 may be coupled to at least one pin 351 via internal wire331 and coupled to the conductive interface 390.

The signal generator or module 370 may generate a variety of signals(such as shown in FIGS. 5A to 6) to vibrate one or more pins 351electrically coupled to the system 300 via the internal wire 331 and theconductive interface 390. In operation a user 20 may touch theconductive interface 390 and place one or more electrically coupled pins351 in contact with their dermis to form an electrical pathway from thepin 351 to the electrical conductive interface 390. The signal generator370 may include a battery to supply energy to generate one or moreelectrical signals. The switch 375 coupled to the generator 370 maycause the generator to produce one or more electrical signals for apredetermined time interval or until the switch 375 is triggered again.As noted a pin vibration 351 may increase the micro-wound or cut formedin dermis by the pin 351.

FIG. 2D is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of an acupunctureapparatus 362 according to various embodiments. The apparatus 362 mayinclude a handle 330, an elastic section 333, internal wire(s) 331, 332,signal generator 370, switch 375, and plate 350. The signal generator370 may be coupled to at least one pin 351 via internal wire 331 andcoupled to at least one other pin 352 via internal wire 332. When activethe pins 351, 352 may form at least one dipole pair. The signalgenerator or module 370 may generate a variety of signals (such as shownin FIGS. 5A to 6) to vibrate one or more dipole pair or bipolar pins351, 352.

FIG. 2F includes a simplified exploded view of an embodiment of anacupuncture plate 350 including at least one electrically coupled pin351 according to various embodiments. The plate 350 may include anupper, substantially rigid section or layer 357, deformable or elasticsection 355 or layer, and acupuncture section or layer 353. Theacupuncture section 353 may include a plurality of acupuncture pins orneedles 351 where at least one pin 351 is electrically coupled to thewire 331. In a bipolar configuration a second wire 332 may be coupled toat least one other pin 351. FIG. 2E is a simplified bottom view of theplate 350 showing the pins or needles 359, 357 where the pins may beelectrically coupled to a first wire 331 and a second wire 332 to formdipole pair (bipolar pins).

In an embodiment the plate 350 may have a rectangular cross sectionhaving a dimensional about 1 to 4 cm in width and about 1 to 6 cm inlength. The plate 350 may any shape including circular, elliptical,polygon, or other shape where the shape may be particular to adermalogical area to be treated.

In an embodiment the plate may include about 140 pins or needles 351uniformly separated. Each needle may be about 0.1 to 0.4 mm in diameterand 0.2 mm to 1.4 mm in length including 0.3 mm diameter and 0.8 mm inlength in an embodiment. The elastic section or layer 355 may becomprised of a combination of elastomeric materials and non-elastomericmaterials. The elastomeric materials may include plastics, rubber(synthetic or natural), and spring(s). The pin section 353 may becoupled directly or indirectly to the upper section 357 via the elasticsection 353, including via glues, screws, welds, or other connection. Inan embodiment the pin section 353 may include elastomers to enable atleast partial deformation of the pin section 353 about the pins 351.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are simplified isometric diagrams of acupunctureapparatus 400, 460 including at least one pin 451 that may be coupled toan electrical signal via an internal wire 458. Each apparatus 400, 460includes curved roller 450 having a plurality of acupuncture pins 451where the pins 451 may be similar to pins 351. In apparatus 400, theelectrical lead wire 400A may be coupled to an electrical interface 410in the apparatus handle 430 where the interface 410 is electricallycoupled to the internal wire 458. In apparatus 460, the handle 430 mayinclude a signal generator 470 similar to generator 370, switch 475, andconduction surface 490. Apparatus 460 may operate similar to apparatus360 in operation other than the rolling capability of the apparatus 460,400. In an embodiment the rollers 450 may have various configurations toconform to a dermal area to be treated.

In any of the above apparatus 10, 320, 350, 360, 400, 460, the plate orroller 200, 350, 450 may include a plurality of embedded LEDs 32A, 32B,a battery 52, a controller 54, and an antenna 56 as shown in FIG. 4A. Inan embodiment the LED 32A may be configured to emit energy of a firstparticular frequency range and the LED 32B may be configured to emitenergy of a second particular frequency range. The surface 22 of aroller 450, plate 200, 350, 450 may also be embedded with a chemical 22Athat may be used to treat dermalogical cells. The chemical 22A may bereactive to the first and the second frequency ranges. Furtherdermalogical cells may be reactive to the first and the second frequencyranges. In addition, the combination of the chemical 22A and theapplication of the first and the second frequency ranges to the chemical22A and dermalogical cells may have a synergetic effect.

In an embodiment the chemical 22A may be applied directly to thedermalogical cells to be treated. In a further embodiment a chemical 22Amay not be employed in addition to the apparatus 10, 320, 350, 360, 400,460. In an embodiment the pin section 250, 353, may be translucent andcomprised of polyurethane, medical silicon, or other pliable,translucent, hypoallergenic material.

In an embodiment the local controller 54 and battery 52 may also beembedded in the upper section 290, 357, pin section 230, 351, or thehandle 220, 330, or separately between these sections. The controller 54may be electrically coupled to the one or more LEDS 32A, 32B. Thecontroller 54 may also be coupled to a battery 52. The controller 54 maygenerate one or more signals for LEDs 32A, 32B as a function of a userswitch 75, 56. The signals may vary as a function of the first andsecond frequency ranges. The controller 54 may include one or moretimers 58 that may limit the application of energy to the LEDs 32A, 32Bto predetermined time intervals. In an embodiment the controller mayalso be coupled to an antenna 56 to receive or transmit one or moresignals related to the transmission of energy to one or more LEDs 32A,32B. In an embodiment the system 10 may be configured to treat aparticular segment of dermalogical cells such as a face. The apparatus10 may be configured to conform to a user's anatomy so that emittedlight is focused on dermalogical cells. In another embodiment 200, thesystem 200 may be configured to treat another anatomical regionincluding dermalogical cells on an arm, leg, chest, hands, feet, neck,or other region.

In an embodiment 510 shown in FIG. 4B, a controller 54, an antenna 104,and a power source 60 may be located in external to the apparatus 10,320, 360. The power source 60 may be coupled to the controller 54. Thecontroller 54 may be coupled to one or more LEDs 32A, 32B via one ormore electric wires 106. The controller 54 may generate one or moresignals for LEDs 32A, 32B as a function of the user switch 56. Thesignals may vary as a function of the first and second frequency ranges.The controller 54 may include one or more timers 58 that may limit theapplication of energy to the LEDs 32A, 32B to predetermined timeintervals. In an embodiment the controller may also be coupled to anantenna 104 to receive or transmit one or more signals related to thetransmission of energy to one or more LEDs 32A, 32B.

In any of the above apparatus 10, 320, 350, 360, 400, 460, the plate orroller 200, 350, 450 may include a plurality of embedded LED lens 536, afiber optic pathway 534, and an LED 532. In this embodiment the LED 532may be coupled to lens 536 via the fiber optic pathway 534. Thecontroller 540 may generate an LED signal via the LED 532 that istransmitted to dermalogical cells via the lens 536 and the fiber opticpathway 534.

FIGS. 5A-5B are diagrams of electrical signal waveforms 650, 630, 640that may be applied to one or more LEDs 32A, 32B, 532 and to the pins230, 351, 451 according to various embodiments. The signal waveform 650includes several square-wave pulses 652, 654, 656 that may be applied toan LED 32A, 32B, 532. Each pulse 652, 654, 656 may a have a similarmagnitude and envelope. The waveform 650 may be used to energize an LED32A, 32B, 532 and to the pins 230, 351, 451 periodically P1 for apredetermined interval T1 where each pulse 652, 654, 656 has a amplitudeA1. In an embodiment, A1 may be about 0.1 milliamperes (mA) to 10 mA,the pulse width T1 may be about 100 microseconds (μs) to 500 μs and theperiod P1 may from 100 ms to 500 ms as a function of the energy requiredto create capacitance in a liquid. In another embodiment, A1 may beabout 0.5 milliamperes (mA) to 5 mA, the pulse width T1 may be about 200microsecond (μs) and the period P1 may about 250 ms as a function of theenergy to drive an LED or cause one or more pins 230, 351, 451 tovibrate.

In FIG. 5B a signal waveform 630 may be applied to a first LED 32A, 32B,532 module or group and to the pins 230, 351, 451 and a second waveform640 may be applied or used to energize a second LED 32A, 32B, 532 moduleand the pins 230, 351, 451, 352. The signal waveform 630 includesseveral square-wave pulses 632, 634, and 636 and the signal waveform 640includes several square-wave pulses 642, 644, and 646. Each pulse 632,634, 636, 642, 644, 646 may a have a similar magnitude and envelope. Thewaveform 630 may be used to energize a first LED 32A, 32B, 332 moduleand the pins 230, 351, 451 periodically P1 for a predetermined intervalT1 where each pulse 632, 634, 636 has an amplitude A1. The waveform 640may be used to energize a second LED 32A, 32B, 332 module and the pins230, 351, 451 periodically P2 for a predetermined interval T2 where eachpulse 642, 644, 646 has an amplitude B1. The pulse width T1, T2 may beabout 100 microseconds (μs) to 500 μs and the period P1, P2 may from 100ms to 500 ms as a function of the energy to affect dermalogical cells orchemicals 22A. In another embodiment, A1, A2 may be about 0.5milliamperes (mA) to 5 mA, the pulse width T1, T2 may be about 200microsecond (μs) and the period P1, P2 may about 250 ms as a function ofthe energy required to affect dermalogical cells or chemicals 22A. In anembodiment the pulses 632, 634, 636 do not substantially overlap thepulses 642, 644, 646. In an embodiment T1>T2 and P2 is an integermultiple of P1.

FIG. 6 depicts a waveform 670 that includes multiple pulses 672, 674,676, 678, 682, and 684 that may not overlap in the time or the frequencydomain. In an embodiment each pulse 672, 674, 676, 678, 682, and 684 mayhave a pulse width T3, and frequency spectrum width F1 and period P3.The pulse 672 is frequency offset from the pulse 674, the pulse 676 isfrequency offset from the pulse 678, and the pulse 682 is frequencyoffset from the pulse 684. The pulses 672, 674, 676, 678, 682, and 684may be applied to an LED module to affect dermalogical cells orchemicals 22A and the pins 230, 351, 451. Pulses 672, 674 havingdifferent frequency spectrums may enable different LED stimulation. Inan embodiment the pulses 672, 676, 682 may be applied to a first LEDmodule and the pulses 674, 678, 684 may be applied to a second LEDmodule. The frequency separation between the respective pulses mayenable simultaneous energization of a first and a second LED module andthe pins 230, 351, 451 and subsequent and independent spectrumgeneration.

In an embodiment the invention may employ the algorithm 740 shown inFIG. 7A to apply therapy to dermalogical cells. A user, clinician, orequipment may place an apparatus 10, 320, 360, 360, 400, 460 ondermalogical cells to be treated (activity 741) including pressing theapparatus against the cells firmly enough to embed one or more pins 251,351, 451 in the cells. A first signal such as shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and6 may be applied to a first LED module or group (32A) and the pins 230,351, 451 of a dermalogical apparatus 10, 320, 360, 360, 400, 460(activity 742) for a predetermined time period (activity 744). A secondsignal such as shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 6 may be applied to a secondLED module or group (32B) and the pins 230, 351, 451 of a dermalogicalapparatus 10, 320, 360, 360, 400, 460 (activity 746) for a predeterminedtime period (activity 748). The signals applied to the groups may beselected to stimulate dermalogical cells or chemicals 22A or causevibration of one or more pins 251, 351, 451.

In another embodiment the invention may employ the algorithm 750 shownin FIG. 7B to apply therapy to dermalogical cells. A user, clinician, orequipment may apply a light sensitive chemical on an apparatus 10, 320,360, 360, 400, 460 or on dermalogical cells to be treated (activity751). The user, clinician, or equipment may place apparatus 10, 320,360, 360, 400, 460 on dermalogical cells to be treated (activity 752). Asignal such as shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 6 may be applied to a LEDmodule or group (32A or 32B) and the pins 230, 351, 451 (activity 354)for a predetermined time period (activity 356).

In another embodiment the invention may employ the algorithm 760 shownin FIG. 7C to apply therapy to dermalogical cells. A user, clinician, orequipment may apply a light sensitive chemical on an apparatus 10, 320,360, 360, 400, 460 or on dermalogical cells to be treated (activity761). The user, clinician, or equipment may place an apparatus 10, 320,360, 360, 400, 460 on dermalogical cells to be treated (activity 762). Afirst signal such as shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 6 may be applied to afirst LED module or group (32A) and one or more pins 251, 351, 451 of adermalogical apparatus 10, 320, 360, 360, 400, 460 (activity 763) for apredetermined time period (activity 764). A second signal such as shownin FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 6 may be applied to a second LED module or group(32B) and one or more pins 251, 351, 451 of a dermalogical apparatus 10,320, 360, 360, 400, 460 (activity 766) for a predetermined time period(activity 768).

The apparatus 10, 320, 360, 360, 400, 460 may be used to employ cosmeticor medications or other chemicals directly on dermalogical cells such asskin with the addition of light of specific frequencies for treatmentand healing of epidermal cells of the skin or tissue below the skin withthe object of assisting the agents used in delivery, uptake, action andfunction more effectively. The LEDs 32A, 32B may create the specificfrequencies of light. The apparatus 10, 320, 360, 360, 400, 460, lightapplication may enable cosmetic or medication or other active chemicals22A on dermalogical cells for longer time periods while preventingdehydration of the applied substances. Such light application mayimprove the efficacy of cosmetic or medication or other active chemicalas a function of the selected wavelengths or frequencies.

Further the dermalogical system application may increase cellularactivity and help heal tissue faster and facilitate the delivery, uptakeand use in the cell of the cosmetics, medications, or chemicals 22Aused. The LED light of specific frequencies may increase fibroblastproduction and collagen as well as other activities of the cellincluding stimulating the organelles and mitochondria to produce ATP forcell energy for functioning, decreasing treatment time and facilitatehealing. The apparatus 10, 320, 360, 360, 400, 460 make the agents usedon the body more efficacious and useful to the body on a cellular level.

The apparatus 10, 320, 360, 360, 400, 460 may stimulate the basic energyprocesses in the mitochondria (energy compartments) of each cell,particularly when near-infrared light is used to activate the colorsensitive chemicals (chromophores, cytochrome systems) inside but notlimited to these spectrum alone as the UV, other visible and IRspectrums may also be usable. In an embodiment optimal LED wavelengthsfor skin repair may include 640, 680, 730 nanometers (nm) wavelengths toIR 880 nm. Further application of blue light 400 nm to 490 via theapparatus 10, 320, 360, 360, 400, 460 may inhibit the growth and killbacteria, fungus in and on dermalogical cells. The apparatus 10, 320,360, 360, 400, 460 may be employed to apply cosmetics, medicationsand/or other actives directly to the skin and maintain their presencelong-term while using LED or other actinic light to increase theireffect on the cells and tissue in the body. The apparatus 10, 320, 360,360, 400, 460 are also highly portability and enable user mobilityduring treatment.

Chemicals 22A may include cosmetics, medications and other activesappropriate for dermalogical cells including AHA's (alpha hydroxy acid),natural oils, aloe vera compounds, collagen boosters, bt, chitosan,daeses, endorphins, photodynamic drugs (PDT) like (Photofrin or ALA),vitamins A, C E or others, kojic acid, retinols or other exfoliant,salicylic acid, anti oxidants or other youth boosters and anti agingcosmetic or medications, antiseptic, antibiotics, anti-cancer agents,aroma therapy agents, fruit and vegetable extracts, anti-inflammatoryagents, pain relievers, hormones, depilatories, and others, but thescope of this invention is not limited to these alone but can includeany helpful medication, herbal formula or active compound for the skinand/or other tissues.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an article 780 according to variousembodiments. The article 780 shown in FIG. 8 may be used in variousembodiments as a part of apparatus 10, 320, 360, 360, 400, 460 where thearticle 780 may be any computing device including a personal dataassistant, cellular telephone, laptop computer, or desktop computer. Thearticle 780 may include a central processing unit (CPU) 782, a randomaccess memory (RAM) 784, a read only memory (ROM″) 806, a display 788, auser input device 812, a transceiver application specific integratedcircuit (ASIC) 816, a digital to analog (D/A) and analog to digital(A/D) convertor 815, a microphone 808, a speaker 802, and an antenna804. The CPU 782 may include an OS module 814 and an application module813. The RAM 784 may include switches 56 and timers 58.

The ROM 806 is coupled to the CPU 782 and may store the programinstructions to be executed by the CPU 782. The RAM 784 is coupled tothe CPU 782 and may store temporary program data, overhead information,and the queues 798. The user input device 812 may comprise an inputdevice such as a keypad, touch pad screen, track ball or other similarinput device that allows the user to navigate through menus in order tooperate the article 780. The display 788 may be an output device such asa CRT, LCD, LED or other lighting apparatus that enables the user toread, view, or hear user detectable signals.

The microphone 808 and speaker 802 may be incorporated into the device780. The microphone 808 and speaker 802 may also be separated from thedevice 780. Received data may be transmitted to the CPU 782 via a bus796 where the data may include signals for an LED 32A, 32B, 332 oroptical module or wires 331, 458. The transceiver ASIC 816 may includean instruction set necessary to communicate data, screens, or signals.The ASIC 816 may be coupled to the antenna 804 to communicate wirelessmessages, pages, and signal information within the signal. When amessage is received by the transceiver ASIC 816, its corresponding datamay be transferred to the CPU 782 via the serial bus 796. The data caninclude wireless protocol, overhead information, and data to beprocessed by the device 780 in accordance with the methods describedherein.

The D/A and A/D convertor 815 may be coupled to one or more opticalmodules to generate a signal to be used to energize one of the opticalmodules. The D/A and A/D convertor 815 may also be coupled to onedevices such as LEDs 32A, 32B and the pins 251, 351, 451. Any of thecomponents previously described can be implemented in a number of ways,including embodiments in software. Any of the components previouslydescribed can be implemented in a number of ways, including embodimentsin software. Thus, the LEDs 32A, 32B, pins 251, 351, 451, controllers54, switch 56, timers 58, controller 320 may all be characterized as“modules” herein. The modules may include hardware circuitry, single ormulti-processor circuits, memory circuits, software program modules andobjects, firmware, and combinations thereof, as desired by the architectof the system 10, 30, 50, 60 and as appropriate for particularimplementations of various embodiments.

FIG. 9A is a simplified block diagram of a dermalogical treatmentarchitecture (DTA) 900 according to various embodiments. As shown inFIG. 9A, architecture 900 includes a signal generation and controlmodule (SGC) 910, a handle module 920, and an actuator module 930. In anembodiment the handle module 920 may include a deployable needle module924 and a motor and LED module 922. In an embodiment the deployableneedle module 924 may be releasably coupled to the motor and LED module922. In a further embodiment the deployable needle module 924 may be adisposable cartridge module 924 to be removed and disposed after one ormore treatments or for each patient, client, or user.

The SGC 910 may include one or more displays 912A, user input device912B, handle module interface 914A, and actuator module interface 914C,electrical energy storage module 913, and one or more wheels 916A, 916B.In an embodiment the SGC 910 may be moveable and the wheels 916A, 916Bmay be lockable to prevent unintentional movement of the SGC 910 oncepositioned where desired by a user. In another embodiment the SGC 910may also be coupled to the external power source including analternating current (AC) grid source.

In an embodiment the displays 912A may indicate operational parametersfor a hand module 920 to be coupled or coupled to the SGC 910. Thedisplays 920 may be touch sensitive so a user may configure one or moreoperational parameters. In an embodiment the operational parameters mayinclude electrical energy signal intensity to be applied the hand module920, timing of such energy application, needle deployment timing anddepth(s), LED intensity and timing, and number of cycles or shots to beconducted for each actuation via the actuator 930. In an embodiment theactuator 930 may be integral to the SGC 910 or a separate devicewireless coupled or wired to the SGC 910 via a cable 914D and the SGC910 actuator module interface 914C.

In an embodiment the actuator 930 may a mechanical device including afoot actuator or hand based actuator. The actuator 930 may also be anelectronic device having an ASIC or running an application on a device(such as a computer, laptop, PDA, cellphone, or other electronic device)such as the module 780 shown in FIG. 8. In an embodiment the applicationmay enable a user to set or control any of the possible operationalparameters of the SGC 910 and initiate actuation a device 920 coupled tothe SGC 910. FIG. 9B is a block diagram of a CPU module 911 that may beemployed in the SGC 910 according to various embodiments.

The CPU module 911 may include a radio frequency (RF) signal generator(RFSG) module 911A, a needle deployment motor controller (NDMC) module911B, and a photonic signal generator module (PSG) 911C. In anembodiment the photonic signal generator module 911C may be an LEDsignal generator or controller module 911C. In an embodiment a handmodule 920 may include one or more photonic generation devices ormodules (922I in FIG. 10A, 10B) where the PSG 911C may generate controlor energy signals that cause the photonic modules 922I to generatephotons of one or more frequencies with a desired intensity.

The NDMC 911B may control the deployment of one or more needles 924A ofa deployable needle module 924 (FIG. 9C) based on one or more userselected operational parameters. The parameters may determine the depthand duty cycle related to the needle(s) 924A deployment in anembodiment. The signals generated by the NDMC 911B to control needledeployment may vary as a function of motor(s) (922A, FIG. 9C) employedto drive one or more needles 924A. As described above an electricalsignal may also be applied to the needle(s) 924A to cause vibration ofthe needles or enable cutting and coagulation of the tissue in which theneedles 924A are deployed. The RFSG 911A may generate one or moreelectrical signals to be applied to one or more needles 924A based onthe selected operational parameters. An electrical signal may be appliedto a single needle 924A, group of needles 924A (mono-polarconfiguration) or pair(s) of needles 924A (bipolar configuration) in anembodiment. In an embodiment the RFSG 911A may apply signals 650, 630,640, 670 shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 6, a combination thereof, or othersignals.

In an embodiment the CPU module 911 via the RFSG 911A, NDMC 911B, andPSG 911 C may create various therapy solutions including variouscombinations of photonic, electrical, and mechanical (needle deployment)therapy. In a further embodiment the CPU module 911 may control thegeneration of photonic energy to particular modules 922I, individual orgroup of needle(s) 924A deployment via one or more motors 922A, andcontrol electrical signal(s) applied to individual or group of needles924A. Accordingly the DTA 900 may apply various therapies based on userselections via the displays 912A, user selection device 912B, andactuator 930. The CPU 911 may employ the algorithm 930 (FIG. 12) orvariations thereof to control the operation of the DTA 900.

FIG. 9C is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a cartridge baseddermalogical treatment apparatus or hand module 920 with one or moreneedles 924A refracted according to various embodiments. FIG. 9D is asimplified cross-sectional diagram of a cartridge based dermalogicaltreatment apparatus or hand module 920 with one or more needles 924Adeployed according to various embodiments. The handle module 920 mayinclude a deployable needle module (DNM) 924 and a motor and LED module(MLM) 922. In an embodiment the DLM 924 may be a releasably couplablecartridge module. In a further embodiment the DLM 924 may be adetachable cartridge module (DCM) 924 where the DCM may be changedbetween therapy application(s) or client(s). In a further embodiment,the DCM 924 may be disposed after usage or cleaned via an autoclave orchemical process.

As shown in FIGS. 9C and 9D, the MLM 922 may include one or more motors922A, longitudinally extendable drive arms 922B, drive shaft 922C, outercasing 922D, signal interface 922E, photonic generator module 922H, andDCM 924 interface 925 (shown in FIGS. 10A to 10F). The motor(s) 922A andphotonic generator module 922H may be electrically coupled to the signalinterface 922E to received control signals and energy to operate one ormore motors 922A and photonic devices or modules 922I of the photonicgenerator module 922H. The drive arm(s) 922B may be coupled to one ormore drive shafts 922C so the drive shafts may be moved longitudinallyto deploy and retract one or more needles 924A when the MLM 922 isoperatively coupled to the DNM 924.

As shown in FIGS. 9C and 9D the deployable needle module 924 may includeat least one deployable needle 924A, MLM connecting arm and drivecoupling tabs 924B, and MLM connecting/locking arms 924C. The MLMconnecting/locking arms 924C may be configured to engage and lock to DCM924 interface 925 recesses 925D (FIG. 10F). The MLM connecting arm anddrive coupling tabs 924B may be configured to disengageconnecting/locking arms 924C from the MLM interface 925 when the tabs924B are depressed inward in an embodiment (as shown in FIG. 10B). Thetabs 924B may further displace drive shaft connecting arms 924D inwardor centrally when the tabs 924B are depressed inwardly (as also shown inFIG. 10B). When the connecting/locking arms 924C are depressed inwardlyor centrally (FIGS. 9C and 9D) from an outward position (FIG. 10B). Thearms 924C may engage the interface 925 recesses 925D to securely holdthe DNM 924 to the MLM 922. The arms 924C may also displace the tabs924B outwardly and cause the drive shaft connecting arms 924D to returnoutwardly.

The drive shaft connecting arms 924D may securely engage the drive shaft922C tip 922F (FIG. 10E) recess 922G (FIG. 10E) when they return to anoutward position as shown in FIGS. 10D and 10E. In this configurationthe DNM 924 is securely coupled to the MLM 922 via the arms 924C and924D. In this configuration the motor(s) 922A via drive shaft(s) 922Ccoupled to the motor 922A shaft 922B may reliably drive one or moreneedles 924A of the DNM 924 (from a retracted or deployed position suchas shown in FIGS. 9C and 9D, respectively). Further the motor(s) 922Amay include steps or infinite drive extension 922B control to enableprecise needle deployment depth or extension beyond the DNM 924 shell(924E, FIG. 10A).

FIG. 10A-10D are simplified, partial, cross-sectional diagrams of theDNM 924 in various stages of attachment to the MLM 922 via the arms 924Cand 924D according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 10A the DNMor DCM 924 is decoupled from the MLM 922. The MLM 922 includes thephotonic generator module (PGM) 922H, interface 925, and drive shaft tip922F in a distal portion. As shown in FIG. 10A the PGM 922H may includeone or more photon modules 922I. The photon modules 922I may be LEDmodules and emit photon with various frequencies and intensities basedon the PSG 911C control signal.

As shown in FIG. 10A the DNM or DCM 924 may include the connecting arms924C, deflecting tabs 924B, drive shaft coupling arms 924D, outer shell924E, and one or more needles 924A. In an embodiment the drive shaftcoupling arms 924D may include tabs that may securely engage the driveshaft tip 922F recess 922G. The drive shaft coupling arms 924D may bereturnably deflectable inwardly (as shown in FIG. 10B) via inwarddepression of the tabs 924B. Such inward depression of the tabs 924B maydeflect the coupling arms 924C outward. Similarly, inward depression ofthe coupling arms 924C to engage the interface 925 recesses 925Dsecurely may deflect the tab arms 924B outwardly (relative the centralaxis of the DNM 920). Such outward movement may enable the drive shaftcoupling arms 924D to return to a non-deflected state as shown in FIG.10A.

In an embodiment a DNM or DCM 924 may be securely coupled to a MLM 922by first completely compressing the arms or tabs 924B as shown in FIG.10B. As noted above such inward compression may cause the coupling arms924C to deflect outwardly and the drive shaft coupling arms 924D to bedeflected inwardly towards each other. The drive shaft coupling arms924D may be compressed so they may fit within the drive shaft 922C tip922F recess 922G as the DNM or DCM 924 is advanced toward the MLM 922distal end to securely couple the DNM 924 to the MLM 922 (as shown inFIG. 10D). After the DNM or DCM 924 is placed over the MLM 922 distalend so the drive shaft coupling arms 924D are located within the driveshaft 922C tip 922F recess 922G and the coupling arms 924C are adjacentthe MLM 922 interface 925 recesses 925D as shown in FIG. 10C.

To complete the coupling of a DNM 924 to the MLM 922, the coupling arms924C may compressed inwardly as shown in FIG. 10D. The compression ofthe coupling arms 924C may deflect the tabs or arms 924B outwardly. Suchoutward deflection of the arms 924B may enable the drive shaft couplingarms 924D to return to a non-deflected state and securely engage the MLM922 drive shaft 922C tip 922F recess 922G (as shown in FIG. 10D). In anembodiment a single coupling arm 924C, drive shaft coupling arm 924D,and tab 924B may be employed in an DNM 924. After the secure coupling ofthe DNM 924 to the MLM 922, the MLM 922 via the motor(s) 922A maycontrollable deploy one or more needles 924A as shown in FIG. 10E. FIG.1OF is a simplified cross-sectional diagram of a DNM interface 925according to various embodiments.

As noted the interface 925 may include one or more recesses 925D to besecurely engaged to DNM 924 coupling arms 924C. The interface 925 mayalso include several fenestrations or openings 925A, 925B, 925C. Thecentral fenestration 925A may be sized to enable passage of the MLM 922drive shaft 922C tip 922F. The fenestrations 925C may be sized andlocated above one or more photon modules 922I to enable photonsgenerated by the photon modules 922I to pass into the DNM 924. In anembodiment the DNM 924 outer casing 924E may be translucent and act as awaveguide to communicate photons to the needle area of the DNM 924. Thefenestrations 925B may be sized and configured to enable electricalcoupling pins 924G (FIG. 11A) passage from the DNM 924 to electricalcouplings of the MLM 922. The pins 924G may communicate electricalsignals from the RFSG 911A to one or more needles 924A via the wires914B and MLM 922.

FIG. 11A is a simplified, partial, cross-sectional diagram of DNM 924coupled to a MLM 922 with needles 924A deployed according to variousembodiments. As shown in FIG. 11A, the DNM 924 may further includeelectrical coupling pins 924G set with a spring loaded base 924H (in anembodiment). As noted the pins 924G may extend to electrical contacts inthe MLM 922 via the interface 925 fenestrations 925B. Along a pair ofpins 924G is shown, one or more pins 924G may be employed in a DNM 924according to various embodiments. A drive shaft coupling arm 924D mayinclude an offset 9241 where the offset may be configured to engage atab or arm 924B.

As shown in FIG. 11A when the needle array or assemble 924F is deployeddepression of the tabs 924B inwardly will not engage the drive shaftcoupling arms 924D (via the offsets 9241). Such a configuration mayprevent unintentional decoupling of the DNM 924 to the MLM 922 when theneedle assembly 924F is at least partially deployed. As shown in FIG.11A, the electrical contact pin 924G is sized to fit within the springloaded based 924H. In an embodiment the internal spring 924M is mayforce extension of the pin 924G to maintain electrical conduction withthe MLM 922 as the needle assembly 924F is moved (recessed and deployedto various depths). FIG. 11B is a simplified, cross-sectional diagram ofa DNM 924 needle assembly 924F according to various embodiments. FIG.11C is a simplified, cross-sectional, exploded diagram of the DNM 924needle assembly 924F according to various embodiments. As shown in FIGS.11B and 11C, the needle assembly 924F may include a pin cover 924J,drive arm module 924L, needles 924A, pins 924G with bases 924H, andneedle printed circuit board (PCB) 924K.

In an embodiment the PCB 924K may couple one or more needles 924A to afirst pin 924G base 924H and another one or more needles 924A to anotherpin 924G based 924H. The first pin 924G and second pin 924H may couplealternating rows or columns of needles 924A to form one or more dipolesbetween such needles 924A. The drive shaft coupling arms 924D may have abase 924L where the cover 924J includes fenestrations for the needles924A, a recess for the PCB 924K, and an outer recess for the couplingarm base 924L (as shown assembled in FIG. 11B).

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating a DTA 900 processing algorithms930 according to various embodiments. As noted the DTA 900 SGC 911 RFSG911A, NDMC 911B, and PSG 911C may enable a user or clinician to select avariety of operational parameters to deliver a desired combination ofelectrical, light (photonic), and mechanical (needle) therapy todermalogical tissue. In the algorithm 930, a user may select differentoperational modes including cut (activities 932A to 932F), blend(activities 934A to 934F), and coagulation (activities 936A to 936F) inan embodiment. In a cut operational mode, a user may select theelectrical signal intensity (activity 932B) and application time(activity 932C). The CPU 911 may determine the total energy that will beapplied for each activation based on the selected intensity and time(total fluence—activity 932D). Then, upon activation (activity 932E,932F) the DTA 900 may energize the MLM 922 based on the operationalparameters.

In a blend operational mode (activity 934A), a user may select theelectrical signal intensity, start delay, and duty cycle (activity 934B)and needle deployment depth and number of shots per activation (activity934C). The duty cycle may include the delay before energy and needdeployment, the time the energy and needles are deployed, and thesubsequent off or rest time before the next possible duty cycle. Asnoted above the motor(s) 922A may enable precise needle extension(effective depth) control. In an embodiment the motor(s) 922A mayinclude a transverse motor that converts rotational force tolongitudinal force. The motor may be a Haydon model number:21H4AB-05-049 having a motor speed of about 0.005 mm/msec and motorpower of about 1000 Hz approximately 40 N (Newton) (described in detailat www.haydonkerk.com and whose specifications are incorporated byreference).

The CPU 911 may determine the total energy that will be applied for eachactivation based on the selected intensity and duty cycle (totalfluence—activity 934D). Then, upon activation (activity 934E, 934F) theDTA 900 may energize the MLM 922 based on the operational parameters anddeploy the needle assembly 924F to a desired extension beyond the DNM924 shell 924E to enable a desired depth of needle 924A penetrationwithin tissue when the shell 924E is placed adjacent the tissue.

In a coagulation operational mode (activity 936A), a user may select theelectrical signal intensity and start delay (activity 936B) and needledeployment depth and number of shots per activation (activity 936C). Asnoted above the motor(s) 922A may enable precise needle extension(effective depth) control. The CPU 911 may determine the total energythat will be applied for each activation based on the selected intensity(total fluence—activity 936D). Then, upon activation (activity 936E,936F) the DTA 900 may energize the MLM 922 based on the operationalparameters and deploy the needle assembly 924F to a desired extensionbeyond the DNM 924 shell 924E to enable a desired depth of needle 924Apenetration within tissue when the shell 924E is placed adjacent thetissue.

Applications that may include the novel apparatus and systems of variousembodiments include electronic circuitry used in high-speed computers,communication and signal processing circuitry, modems, single ormulti-processor modules, single or multiple embedded processors, dataswitches, and application-specific modules, including multilayer,multi-chip modules. Such apparatus and systems may further be includedas sub-components within a variety of electronic systems, such astelevisions, cellular telephones, personal computers (e.g., laptopcomputers, desktop computers, handheld computers, tablet computers,etc.), workstations, radios, video players, audio players (e.g., mp3players), vehicles, medical devices (e.g., heart monitor, blood pressuremonitor, etc.) and others. Some embodiments may include a number ofmethods.

It may be possible to execute the activities described herein in anorder other than the order described. Various activities described withrespect to the methods identified herein can be executed in repetitive,serial, or parallel fashion.

A software program may be launched from a computer-readable medium in acomputer-based system to execute functions defined in the softwareprogram. Various programming languages may be employed to createsoftware programs designed to implement and perform the methodsdisclosed herein. The programs may be structured in an object-orientatedformat using an object-oriented language such as Java or C++.Alternatively, the programs may be structured in a procedure-orientatedformat using a procedural language, such as assembly or C. The softwarecomponents may communicate using a number of mechanisms well known tothose skilled in the art, such as application program interfaces orinter-process communication techniques, including remote procedurecalls. The teachings of various embodiments are not limited to anyparticular programming language or environment.

The accompanying drawings that form a part hereof show, by way ofillustration and not of limitation, specific embodiments in which thesubject matter may be practiced. The embodiments illustrated aredescribed in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art topractice the teachings disclosed herein. Other embodiments may beutilized and derived therefrom, such that structural and logicalsubstitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scopeof this disclosure. This Detailed Description, therefore, is not to betaken in a limiting sense, and the scope of various embodiments isdefined only by the appended claims, along with the full range ofequivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Such embodiments of the inventive subject matter may be referred toherein individually or collectively by the term “invention” merely forconvenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of thisapplication to any single invention or inventive concept, if more thanone is in fact disclosed. Thus, although specific embodiments have beenillustrated and described herein, any arrangement calculated to achievethe same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown.This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations orvariations of various embodiments. Combinations of the aboveembodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein,will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the abovedescription.

The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R.§1.72(b), requiring an abstract that will allow the reader to quicklyascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted withthe understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit thescope or meaning of the claims. In the foregoing Detailed Description,various features are grouped together in a single embodiment for thepurpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is notto be interpreted to require more features than are expressly recited ineach claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may be found in less thanall features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus the following claimsare hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claimstanding on its own as a separate embodiment.

1. A method of treating dermatological tissue, comprising: placing auser holdable device including a proximal end and a distal end, thedistal end including a plurality of extendable needles from a devicedistal end surface on or near dermatological tissue to be treated;energizing a motor coupled to the extendable needles to cause aplurality of the extendable needles to extend a desired distance fromthe distal end surface; and energizing the plurality of the extendableneedles via a signal generator electrically coupled to the plurality ofthe extendable needles.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprisingplacing a dermatological chemical one of on at least a portion of thedermatological tissue, at least a portion of the end surface, and theplurality of the extendable needles.
 3. The method of claim 1, whereinthe device further includes a releasably couplable deployable needleassembly, the deployable needle assembly mechanically separatably fromthe proximal end, and the extendable needles located in the needleassembly.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the proximal end includesthe needle deploying motor, the motor including a draft shaft releasablycouplable to the deployable needle assembly.
 5. The method of claim 3,wherein the proximal end further includes at least one embedded LEDtherein and further including energizing the LED when the signalgenerator is energized, the at least one embedded LED illuminating thedeployable needle assembly when energized.
 6. The method of claim 5 3,wherein one of the proximal end and the deployable needle assemblyincludes at least one electrical conductor and the other includes of atleast one restorably deflectable electrical contact couplable to the oneof the proximal end and the deployable needle assembly at least oneelectrical conductor and communicating electrical signals from theproximal end to the plurality of the extendable needles.
 7. The methodof claim 6, wherein the at least one restorably deflectable electricalcontact includes a depressible pin.
 8. The method of claim 5, whereinthe releasably couplable deployable needle assembly includes atranslucent section to communicate illumination from the least oneembedded LED to the plurality of extendable needles.
 9. The method ofclaim 6, wherein a first deflectable electrical contact is coupled to afirst plurality of the plurality of extendable needles and a seconddeflectable electrical contact is coupled to a second, differentplurality of the plurality of extendable needles.
 10. The method ofclaim 3, further comprising employing the signal generator to energizethe plurality of the extendable needles with energy to one of cut,blend, or coagulate dermatological tissue.
 11. An apparatus for treatingdermatological tissue, comprising: a user holdable device including aproximal end and a distal end, the distal end including a plurality ofextendable needles, a plurality of the extendable needles extendablefrom the device distal end surface; a motor coupled to the plurality ofthe extendable needles that causes the plurality of the extendableneedles to extend a desired distance from the distal end surface whenthe motor is energized with a particular signal; and a signal generatorelectrically coupled to the plurality of the extendable needles toenergize the plurality of the extendable needles.
 12. The apparatus ofclaim 11, wherein the device proximal end includes an electricalconnector couplable to the signal generator.
 13. The apparatus of claim11, wherein the device further includes a releasably couplabledeployable needle assembly, the deployable needle assembly mechanicallyseparatably from the proximal end, and the extendable needles located inthe needle assembly.
 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the proximalend includes the needle deploying motor, the motor including a draftshaft releasably couplable to the deployable needle assembly.
 15. Theapparatus of claim 13, wherein the proximal end further includes atleast one embedded LED therein and the apparatus further including aphotonic signal generator electrically coupled to the least one embeddedLED, the at least one embedded LED illuminating the deployable needleassembly when energized.
 16. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein one ofthe proximal end and the deployable needle assembly includes at leastone electrical conductor and the other includes at least one restorablydeflectable electrical contact couplable to the one of the proximal endand the deployable needle assembly at least one electrical conductor andcommunicating electrical signals from the proximal end to the pluralityof the extendable needles.
 17. The apparatus of claim 16, the wherein atleast one restorably deflectable electrical contact includes adepressible pin.
 18. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the releasablycouplable deployable needle assembly includes a translucent section thatcommunicates illumination from the least one embedded LED to theplurality of extendable needles.
 19. The apparatus of claim 16, whereina first deflectable electrical contact is coupled to a first pluralityof the plurality of extendable needles and a second deflectableelectrical contact is coupled to a second, different plurality of theplurality of extendable needles.
 20. The apparatus of claim 13, whereinthe signal generator energizes the plurality of the extendable needleswith energy to one of cut, blend, or coagulate dermatological tissue.21. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising the motor deployingthe plurality of extendable needles to a predetermined depth and thesignal generator energizing the plurality of extendable needles to apredetermined intensity for a predetermined duty cycle.
 22. Theapparatus of claim 13, further comprising the signal generatorenergizing a first plurality of the extendable needles to causevibration of a second plurality of extendable needles, the firstplurality being greater than or equal to the second plurality.
 23. Themethod of claim 3, further comprising deploying the plurality ofextendable needles to a predetermined depth and employing the signalgenerator to energize the plurality of extendable needles to apredetermined intensity for a predetermined duty cycle.
 24. The methodof claim 3, further comprising employing the signal generator toenergize a first plurality of the extendable needles to cause vibrationof a second plurality of extendable needles, the first plurality beinggreater than or equal to the second plurality.